Xi noted that this year marks the 15th anniversary of the signing of the China-Russia good-neighborly treaty of friendship and cooperation and the 20th anniversary of the bilateral strategic partnership of coordination.

He said Putin’s upcoming state visit to China bears special significance. Xi said the two countries should carry out closer coordination in major international and regional affairs. Xi added that China stands ready to make joint efforts with Russia to play a positive role in the steady and healthy development of SCO.

Putin said the SCO has huge influence in safeguarding regional peace and stability as well as promoting regional economic integration.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of synergizing the EEU and the Belt and Road Initiative within the SCO framework.